Contrary to published reports, Apple has not rejected the Google Voice application for inclusion in its App Store and continues to study it, the computer and software company told the FCC in a Friday filing (see earlier Tech Daily Dose post). "The application has not been approved because, as submitted for review, it appears to alter the iPhone's distinctive user experience by replacing the iPhone's core mobile telephone functionality and Apple user interface with its own user interface for telephone calls, text messaging and voicemail," Apple wrote to FCC Wireless Bureau Acting Chief James Schlichting. "Apple spent a lot of time and effort developing this distinct and innovative way to seamlessly deliver core functionality of the iPhone."

The company further noted that Apple has acted alone and has not consulted with AT&T, its exclusive wireless carrier for iPhone, about whether or not to approve the Google Voice application. "Apple alone makes the final decisions to approve or not approve iPhone applications. There is a provision in Apple's agreement with AT&T that obligates Apple not to include functionality in any Apple phone that enables a customer to use AT&T's cellular network service to originate or terminate a VoIP session without obtaining AT&T's permission," the firm told Schlichting. From time to time, AT&T has expressed concerns regarding network efficiency and potential congestion associated with certain app and such concerns are taken into consideration, Apple said.

Apple also provided the FCC with a list of apps that have been rejected as originally submitted and their current status. The company said more than 40 full-time trained reviewers examine would-be iPhone applications and an executive review board determines procedures and sets policy for the review process. In little more than a year, Apple have reviewed more than 200,000 apps and updates. Apple said 95 percent of apps are approved within 14 days of being submitted. About 8,500 new applications and updates are filed weekly and roughly 20 percent are not approved as originally submitted. Read the Apple's full response here.